Songs & Stories

Backstage Bay Area
  • 4,8 (9)
  • MUSIQUE : LES INTERVIEWS
  • DEUX FOIS PAR SEMAINE
Songs & Stories

Backstage Bay Area is an exclusive podcast that explores the local music scene in depth. It features intimate interviews with emerging and established artists in various genres, including jazz, blues, rock, pop, folk, classical, urban, and world music. The program also offers a unique glimpse into the artists' creative processes, inspirations, and upcoming projects.

  1. Emilio Castillo on Tower of Power’s Timeless Christmas Groove

    18 DÉC.

    Emilio Castillo on Tower of Power’s Timeless Christmas Groove

    Show Notes: In this festive episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Emilio Castillo, founder and tenor saxophonist of the legendary East Bay soul band Tower of Power. Emilio shares the story behind the band’s very first Christmas album, It’s Christmas, a soulful and funky collection that brings new life to beloved holiday classics. From “This Christmas” to “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” Emilio talks about their creative process, working with producer Joe Vannelli, and how the band infused their unmistakable Oakland sound into each track. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at Tower of Power’s Holidays and Hits Tour, which blends their classic hits with fresh holiday magic. Emilio reflects on their deep connection to Oakland, especially the iconic Fox Theatre, where the band will perform on December 21st. Tune in for an episode filled with music, memories, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer, featuring timeless tracks like “This Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and “Silver Bells.” Guest Information: Emilio Castillo Founder and tenor saxophonist of Tower of Power Website: ⁠towerofpower.com⁠ Facebook: ⁠OfficialTowerOfPowerBand⁠ Instagram: ⁠@towerofpower⁠ Call-To-Action: 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on: YouTube: ⁠youtube.com/@Backstagebayarea⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠Songs & Stories⁠ 🎟 Get Tickets to Tower of Power’s Show:Don’t miss Tower of Power’s Holidays and Hits Tour at The Fox Theatre in Oakland on December 21st!Tickets available now at: ⁠thefoxoakland.com⁠ Episode Playlist: “This Christmas” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” “Silver Bells” Key Takeaways: The making of It’s Christmas: Blending East Bay funk with holiday favorites. Emilio’s personal connection to songs like “This Christmas” and “Silver Bells.” How Tower of Power crafts a holiday setlist that fans love. The emotional importance of performing in their hometown of Oakland. Hashtags: #BackstageBayArea #TowerOfPower #HolidayMusic #SoulMusic #OaklandMusic #ItsChristmas #EastBayFunk #LiveMusic #MusicPodcast #FoxTheatre This episode features soulful grooves, holiday cheer, and classic hits—a true celebration of Tower of Power’s enduring legacy! The record label, artist, or press representative provides music and grants use in our episodes for promotional purposes. We encourage our listeners to purchase their music and attend their shows. Photo: Jon R. Luini

    27 min
  2. Vienna Teng: Crafting Musical Mashups and Inspiring Change

    12 DÉC.

    Vienna Teng: Crafting Musical Mashups and Inspiring Change

    Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into a fascinating conversation with singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Known for her boundary-pushing approach to chamber folk and indie pop, Vienna discusses her latest album, We’ve Got You, an ambitious project featuring mashups that reflect the dualities of modern life. From the conceptual depth of "Two Truths" to the poignant tribute of "Comfort," Vienna shares the intricate creative process behind her songs and how her environmental work influences her music. Listeners will also get an exclusive preview of her upcoming concert at Freight and Salvage in Berkeley. Vienna reveals exciting collaborations, spontaneous setlist moments, and a personal touch she adds to her performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her music, this episode showcases Vienna’s unique artistry and heartfelt mission to inspire change through song. Guest Information: Name: Vienna Teng Website: viennateng.com Facebook: Vienna Teng Instagram: @viennatengmusic Call-To-Action: Don’t miss Vienna Teng live at Freight and Salvage in Berkeley on Saturday, December 28, at 8 PM. Tickets are available now at thefreight.org. Be sure to check out Vienna's website for tour dates, merch, and more! Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more behind-the-scenes conversations with today’s top artists. Podcast Playlist: "Spark" "Two Truths" "Comfort" Essential Takeaways: Vienna Teng’s album We’ve Got You explores complex narratives through mashups, blending indie pop with deep emotional storytelling. Her experience in climate action and environmental sustainability profoundly shapes her artistry. Vienna’s upcoming performance at Freight and Salvage will feature spontaneous setlists and exciting collaborations with Alex Wong and Dave Freibusch. Hashtags: #ViennaTeng #WeveGotYou #ChamberFolk #IndiePop #ClimateAction #BackstageBayArea #LiveMusic #FreightAndSalvage #PodcastInterview

    35 min
  3. Sean Hayes on his latest album, ‘Be Like Water’

    11 DÉC.

    Sean Hayes on his latest album, ‘Be Like Water’

    Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean Hayes, whose music bridges folk, soul, and introspective grooves. They delve into the creative journey behind Sean's latest album, Be Like Water, exploring its thematic inspirations drawn from the I Ching and the funky influence of James Brown. Sean also shares the whimsical backstory of the song "Gold Tooth" and offers insight into the powerful, meditative single "That Bomb You Signed." Listeners will discover Sean’s unique songwriting process, which blends improvisation with deeply emotional storytelling, and get a preview of what to expect at his upcoming show at Little Saint in Healdsburg on December 28. Whether you enjoy his intimate lyrics or dynamic live performances, this episode has heartfelt anecdotes and fascinating musical insights. Guest Information: Sean Hayes: Acclaimed folk and soul-inspired singer-songwriter with a career spanning over two decades. Website: seanhayesmusic.com Facebook: facebook.com/seanhayesmusic YouTube: youtube.com/user/seanhayesmusic Call-To-Action: Love what you hear? Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for exclusive artist interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow music enthusiasts! Get your tickets for Sean Hayes’ upcoming show at Little Saint in Healdsburg on December 28 at 7 p.m. here. Make it a night to remember with dinner reservations at their café downstairs before the show. Podcast Playlist: "Gold Tooth" "Be Like Water" "That Bomb You Signed" Essential Takeaways: Sean Hayes’ Be Like Water is a marriage of James Brown’s funk and the wisdom of the I Ching, creating a soulful and introspective listening experience. Behind every song lies a story, from lost gold crowns inspiring "Gold Tooth" to reflections on war and humanity in "That Bomb You Signed." Sean's live shows balance intimacy and energy, adapting to the vibe of seated or standing audiences. Hashtags: #BackstageBayArea #SeanHayes #BeLikeWater #FolkSoulMusic #SingerSongwriter #PodcastInterview #MusicStories #LiveMusic

    30 min
  4. The Third Mind: Improvised Freedom and Psychedelic Soundscapes

    10 DÉC.

    The Third Mind: Improvised Freedom and Psychedelic Soundscapes

    In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into the mind-bending world of The Third Mind with bassist and co-founder Victor Krummenacher.   Known for his work with Camper Van Beethoven and Monks of Doom, Victor shares the story behind the band’s formation, their freeform creative process, and the making of their upcoming live concert album, Live Mind.  From their haunting rendition of “Morning Dew” to the experimental brilliance of “East West,” the conversation explores how The Third Mind pushes the boundaries of psychedelic rock. Victor also reflects on the art of improvisation, the band's collaborative dynamic, and the timeless relevance of protest songs today.  Listeners will get an insider’s look at The Third Mind’s upcoming shows at the Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma and The Chapel in San Francisco, where new music and unexpected moments are guaranteed. Guest Information: Victor Krummenacher Bassist, songwriter, and founding member of The Third Mind, Camper Van Beethoven, and Monks of Doom. Band website: thethirdmind.net Official website: https://victorkrummenacher.com Call-To-Action: Don’t miss the chance to experience The Third Mind live! Catch them at the Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma on December 20 and The Chapel in San Francisco on December 21. Get your tickets now: Sebastiani Theatre The Chapel Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with the artists shaping the music scene. Follow us on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for the latest episodes. Podcast Playlist: “Sally Go Round the Roses” “Morning Dew” “East-West”   Essential Takeaways: The Third Mind thrives on improvisation, creating a unique sound by blending blues, psychedelia, and post-punk influences. Live Mind, their upcoming live album, captures the band’s freeform energy and will be released in February. The Third Mind’s live shows promise a mix of fan favorites, fresh material, and unexpected covers, creating an unforgettable musical experience.   Hashtags: #BackstageBayArea #TheThirdMind #VictorKrummenacher #PsychedelicRock #Improvisation #LiveMusic #MorningDew #EastWest #BayAreaMusic

    1 h 1 min
  5. Free Creatures: Genre-Blending Beats and Holiday Cheer

    10 DÉC.

    Free Creatures: Genre-Blending Beats and Holiday Cheer

    In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with Emily Turner, bassist and vocalist of the genre-bending trio Free Creatures.  Hailing from Southern Oregon, Free Creatures fuses alt-hip-hop, indie, psych-rock, and EDM to create what they call "the umami of music." Emily shares the band’s journey from its unique beginnings on a farm during wildfire season to becoming a powerhouse trio with a sound that defies boundaries. From the upright bass to the MPC beats and left-handed guitar magic, this band is as eclectic as it is innovative. We also explore the stories behind fan-favorite tracks like “Inviting You In” and “Get It Done,” their upcoming vinyl release of While We Can, and their exciting plans for 2025, including live album recordings and new collaborations.  Plus, get a sneak peek at what to expect at their December 12th show at the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley—a holiday dance party that promises shopping, secret guest musicians, and pure Free Creatures magic. Guest Information: Emily Turner Role: Upright Bassist and Vocalist for Free Creatures Website: www.freecreaturesmusic.com Facebook: Free Creatures Music Instagram: @free.creatures Call-To-Action: Don’t miss Free Creatures at the Sweetwater Music Hall on December 12th! Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the show kicks off with Mill Valley’s Maggie Trevers at 8:00 PM. Get your tickets now: Sweetwater Music Hall Tickets. Support the podcast by subscribing on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Stay tuned for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes music stories! Podcast Playlist: “Inviting You In” “Oregon Knights” “Get It Done” Essential Episode Takeaways: Free Creatures blends various genres to create a uniquely captivating sound. Their music often originates from deep collaboration, improvisation, and their connection to the Pacific Northwest’s nature and culture. Upcoming plans include a new album recorded live and exciting collaborations with artists like Dirtwire and Kuf Knotz. Don’t miss their special show at Sweetwater Music Hall, featuring local flair, holiday vibes, and exclusive vinyl releases. Suggested Hashtags: #FreeCreatures #BackstageBayArea #SweetwaterMusicHall #WhileWeCan #UmamiOfMusic #IndieMusic #LiveMusic #HolidayDanceParty

    30 min
  6. Crying Uncle: Revolutionizing the Bluegrass Scene

    6 DÉC.

    Crying Uncle: Revolutionizing the Bluegrass Scene

    Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Miles and Teo Quale, the talented brothers behind the Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band. Known for their electrifying fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and modern acoustic styles, Crying Uncle has become a rising force in the acoustic music scene. They recently signed with Engelhardt Music Group, solidifying their place as emerging stars in the genre. Miles and Teo share their journey, from starting the band in 2016 to performing with legends like David Grisman and Marty Stuart. They discuss the inspiration behind their heartfelt single "I’ll Be Here Either Way" and the instrumental brilliance of their track "Roland." Please tune in to discover their creative process, musical evolution, and what fans can look forward to at their upcoming Hop Monk Novato show. Guest Information: Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band Website: cryingunclebg.com Facebook: facebook.com/cryinguncle Instagram: instagram.com/cryinguncle   About the Guests: Miles and Teo Quale are accomplished young musicians at the forefront of modern bluegrass. Their innovative blend of traditional and contemporary influences has captivated audiences and garnered praise from industry icons. Call-To-Action: Like the episode? Don’t miss Crying Uncle live at Hop Monk Novato on Friday, December 20, at 8 p.m. Get your tickets here. Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with artists shaping today’s music scene. Please find us on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Podcast Playlist: 1.    “BABA Black Sheep” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band 2.   “I’ll Be Here Either Way” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band 3.   “Roland” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band Essential Episode Takeaways: Crying Uncle combines bluegrass roots with jazz and modern acoustic influences. The band's recent signing with Engelhardt Music Group marks a pivotal step in their career. Don’t miss their upcoming show at Hop Monk Novato on December 20, 2024. Hashtags: #BackstageBayArea #CryingUncle #BluegrassMusic #LiveMusic #HopMonkNovato #MusicPodcast

    23 min
  7. Jennifer Greer on her latest album, ‘Speaking with Ghosts’

    5 DÉC.

    Jennifer Greer on her latest album, ‘Speaking with Ghosts’

    Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jennifer Greer to discuss the deeply personal journey behind her new album, Speaking with Ghosts. From her transition from poetry to songwriting to navigating grief and loss, Jennifer talks about how life’s “tidal waves” shaped her music. We also hear about the unique imagery and emotional landscapes that inspired songs like "Broken Glass," "Tidal Wave," and "Sea and Shell." Jennifer shares her creative process, her dynamic trio, and the joy of performing with collaborators. Plus, she previews her upcoming CD release show at The Backroom in Berkeley on December 15th. Tune in for heartfelt conversation and captivating music that bridges the emotional and the ethereal. Guest Information: Jennifer Greer A Bay Area-based singer-songwriter, Jennifer Greer combines poetic imagery and melodic grooves in her unique sound. Her latest album, Speaking with Ghosts, captures themes of love, loss, and resilience. Website: jennifergreer.com Facebook: Jennifer Greer Music Instagram: @jennifergreermusic Call-To-Action: Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to: Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Get tickets to Jennifer Greer’s CD release show on December 15th at The Back Room. Follow the Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with artists shaping today’s music scene. Podcast Playlist: 1.    "Broken Glass" – Jennifer Greer 2.   "Tidal Wave" – Jennifer Greer 3.   "Sea and Shell" – Jennifer Greer Essential Takeaways: From Poetry to Songwriting: Jennifer explains the challenges of transitioning between two art forms and the structure-driven nature of songwriting. Themes of Speaking with Ghosts: The album explores grief and how we carry on conversations with those we’ve lost. Dynamic Performances: Jennifer's trio creates physical, joyful, and passionate energy on stage, promising an unforgettable live experience. Hashtags: #BackstageBayArea #JenniferGreer #SpeakingWithGhosts #SingerSongwriter #LiveMusic #BayAreaMusic #CDRelease #SongwritingJourney #MusicAndGrief

    24 min
  8. Noah Sierota on Echosmith’s Musical Evolution

    3 DÉC.

    Noah Sierota on Echosmith’s Musical Evolution

    Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Noah Sierota, bassist and producer of the multi-platinum alt-pop trio Echosmith.   Celebrating ten years of music, Echosmith embarks on their Cool Kids Decades Tour and releases their latest project, Echosmith: The Live Album. Noah reflects on the band’s evolution since their breakout hit "Cool Kids," sharing insights on creating music as a family and reconnecting with their indie roots.   The episode also spotlights the inspiration behind their updated version of "Cool Kids" and their latest single, "Jaded." Noah also offers a glimpse into the band’s creative process and what fans can expect from their upcoming West Coast tour, including an intimate performance at San Francisco's Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall.  Please tune in for stories about the band's early days, their connection to San Francisco, and how they’ve kept their music honest and relatable across a decade. Guest Information: Noah Sierota Bassist, producer, and songwriter for Echosmith. Website: www.echosmith.com Tickets for the Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall show: brickandmortarmusic.com Essential Takeaways: 1.    Echosmith’s creative journey celebrates authenticity, family dynamics, and evolving sounds. 2.   Their latest tour revisits the nostalgia of their iconic song "Cool Kids" while embracing their indie roots. 3.   Fans can connect to the band more deeply in intimate venues like San Francisco's Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall. Call-To-Action: Love what you hear? Make sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more conversations with artists shaping the music scene. Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@Backstagebayarea Follow us on Apple Podcasts: Songs & Stories Hashtags: #Echosmith #CoolKidsDecadesTour #BackstageBayArea #IndiePop #LiveMusic #SanFranciscoConcerts #MusicPodcast

    26 min
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À propos

Backstage Bay Area is an exclusive podcast that explores the local music scene in depth. It features intimate interviews with emerging and established artists in various genres, including jazz, blues, rock, pop, folk, classical, urban, and world music. The program also offers a unique glimpse into the artists' creative processes, inspirations, and upcoming projects.

Informations

  • Création
    Backstage Bay Area
  • Années d’activité
    2020 - 2024
  • Épisodes
    260
  • Classification
    Contenu explicite
  • Copyright
    © Backstage Bay Area
  • Site web de l’émission
    Songs & Stories

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